The Bicycle Commuters of Anchorage (BCA) applauds six Anchorage businesses and organizations recognized today by the League of American Bicyclists for creating bicycle-friendly workplaces for employees and customers. 

71 new Bicycle Friendly Businesses (BFBs) were announced from across the country, including local awardees: CRW Engineering (Silver) and R&M Consultants, Inc. (Bronze). Honorable Mentions went to Restoration Science and Engineering, PDC, Inc. Engineering, Kittleson & Associates, Inc. and Bayshore Clubhouse.

Anchorage has received many benefits from local BFBs including assistance with the new  Anchorage Bike Map, instruction of Smart Cycling classes, and encouragement of cyclists with treats stations and events throughout the summer.  BFBs are also longstanding supporters and sponsors of charity rides that raise funds for medical and social services in Alaska. 

“By encouraging and supporting a more bicycle-friendly atmosphere for employees and customers alike, Bicycle Friendly Businesses attract, reward and retain staff that are not only healthier and happier, but more productive, driven and passionate about the work they do. Bicycle Friendly Businesses are also good for business with bike racks bringing in more customers.” said Brian Litmans, President of Bicycle Commuters of Anchorage.
2009 saw the first Anchorage BFBs, Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (Gold) and Green Star (Bronze) followed by Southcentral Foundation (Silver) and Providence Alaska Medical Center (Bronze) in 2010. In 2011 REI Anchorage (Bronze) joined the ranks with Alaska Pacific University (HM).

The League’s award is focused on employee behavior and the incentives offered to those who commute by bicycle.By encouraging cycling with convenient bike storage, shower areas and mentorship, businesses foster and retain healthier staff and move toward creating a bicycle friendly workplace.

The League of American Bicyclists provides a means of evaluation at http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bicyclefriendlyamerica/businessscorecard/   The next deadline for BFB applications is January 11, 2013. BCA assists businesses interested in applying or improving their “bike-friendliness” so they can be eligible in the future. Contact us at [email protected] for more information.